Paralysis is a condition characterized by loss of muscle function in a part of the body, and can result from various causes such as stroke, spinal cord injury, traumatic brain injury, multiple sclerosis, and other neurological disorders.
The prevalence of paralysis varies depending on the underlying cause and population studied.
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), approximately 250,000 to 500,000 people worldwide suffer from spinal cord injury each year, and about 2.5 million people globally live with paralysis due to spinal cord injury.
In the United States, the Christopher & Dana Reeve Foundation estimates that approximately 5.4 million people live with paralysis, which is about 1.7% of the population.
Overall, while paralysis is not a common condition, it can have significant impacts on individuals and their families, and can require lifelong management and support.